In this section we give you some dripping ideas for water sports where you will often get wet fully clothed. Many adventure sports involve that you get your clothes wet at some stage.

Often there is "no alternative" but to get into the water with your clothes on, when dry is not an option. Sometimes you cross a stream, or carry a boat into the water or back onto the beach. These are situations where you have little choice but to get at least partially soaked. It's all part of the fun.

Often the anticipation of a good soaking is just as exciting, if not more so. You're still dry, but you know that any moment now you'll be in the water with all your clothes on. First your shoes and socks get wet, then the bottom of your jeans up to your knees. Suddenly you fall in and all your clothes are soaking wet. The thrill is incredible.

Clothing Tips for Water Sports

Always wear clothes and shoes that can get soaked.

The optimal outfit for any water sport depends on what activity you choose. The water can be quite cold, so dress up warm as you would for canoeing or sailing.

You should bring to every session:

1. Comfy Swimming Clothes
   You will definitely get wet and possibly muddy, so older clothes and shoes may be advisable. You should be able to swim at least 50 metres in light clothing like jeans and pullover. T-shirt and shorts, sweatshirt or hoodie, trousers or a tracksuit are most comfortable for swimming.

   Cotton clothes will chill you quickly. Manmade fibres are warmer. Wear comfortable clothes that are unlined so they don't hold a lot of water and air pockets. In spring and fall, wear wool or polypropylene and a windbreaker over swimwear, wool or Polartec socks under sneakers or wetsuit booties.

2. Windproof Cover
   Keep some windproof clothes ready to keep warm. Rainwear is a most practical outfit as it dries quickly, doesn't weigh much when wet and protects you from windchill. Depending on it's design it holds more or less water when swimming.

   A dinghy spray suit keeps the wind and spray off, keeping you comfortable but not necessarily dry. Wear it over one or two layers of clothes, if you don't need to use a wet suit. These suits are easy to swim in and avoid windchill after you've been in the water. All clothes worn for additional warmth shall be worn inside foul weather gear.

3. Shoes Protect Your Feet
   Flexible secure footwear is required (old sneakers or river sandals). Robust lace-up trainers or boots with socks should be worn when you train outdoors to avoid injury and chafing. Avoid heavy boots which can impair your ability to swim unless you have trained for this.

4. Wetsuit
   For cold and wet weather, wear a 'steamer' wetsuit and paddling jacket or polypropylene, pile fleece and a windbreaker. You can wear the wetsuit under your clothes which keeps it protected from dirt or cuts.

5. Safety Kit
   Be prepared to wear appropriate safety equipment when necessary, like a life jacket. Put on a buoyancy aid and helmet in more challenging terrain. A ball cap or visor, sunglasses and sunscreen are useful. If you wear glasses then it is advisable to tie them on.

6. Creature Comforts
   Bring a large beach towel, sun block, plenty to drink, and dry clothes to change into afterwards. If you plan to swim several times you may want a set of dry clothes for each time. It is not nice to put on cold and clammy clothes, better start your swim in a dry outfit.

   Dressed like this you are snug and safe for hours of fun in and around the water. Your local Army Surplus Shop may have most of the robust clothes and shoes you want.

   
   Dinghy suits are easy to swim in.